Original Research Article

▪ Vol. 4, No. 1 (Winter 2023) ▪ p-ISSN: 2791-0237 ▪ e-ISSN: 2791-0202

▪ Pages: 19 – 26

Open Access

Street Crimes: A Case Study of District Swabi (KP)

Maqsoodjan Khan 1 Usama Khan 2

Akif Khan 3

Abstract: The study focused on street crimes in Swabi city, KP, exploring their profound impact on societal
stability. Street crime, encompassing criminal activities in public places, poses significant threats to social
integrity, limiting residents' open movement. Perpetrated mostly by deviants within neighborhoods, street
crimes are symptomatic of legal, economic, educational, and moral declines. The study covered residents from
five police jurisdictions in Swabi, including Swabi, Kalu Khan, Yar Hussain, Parmolo, and Chota Lahor Swabi
KP, with 50 male residents interviewed using an interview schedule for data collection. Employing a
quantitative approach, the research aimed to uncover the causes and consequences of street crimes. Findings
revealed a correlation between drug use and street crimes, with respondents highlighting the role of
inadequate child socialization. Common offenses in Swabi included mobile snatching and bike theft. Moreover,
the study provided evidence linking poverty and lack of education as significant contributors to the prevalence
of street crimes within the community.

Key Words: Street Crime, District Swabi, KP, Police, Public Places

Introduction
Street crimes have been a persistent challenge in many urban areas, often threatening the safety and
security of public spaces and the well-being of their inhabitants. This study delves into the specific context
of District Swabi, located in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province of Pakistan, to investigate the
dynamics and implications of street crimes in this region. Street crimes encompass a wide range of criminal
activities that occur in public places, including but not limited to theft, robbery, assault, vandalism, and
drug-related offenses.

Understanding street crimes is essential as they disrupt the social fabric and harmony of communities,
eroding the sense of safety and trust that individuals have in their neighborhoods. The prevalence of street
crimes is often rooted in a complex interplay of socioeconomic, educational, and cultural factors, making
it a multifaceted issue that warrants in-depth examination.

District Swabi, with its diverse neighborhoods and unique sociocultural dynamics, serves as an
intriguing case study for understanding the causes and consequences of street crimes. This study aims to
shed light on the factors contributing to the occurrence of street crimes in this specific region, as well as
their broader impact on society.

Swabi is the largest city in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa according to census 2017 total population of District

Swabi is approximately 1625477 (Sixteen lacs, Twenty-five thousand and seventy-seven). In total
population males are 815828, females are 809850. Due to Terrorism in KP the social and economic situation
has been badly effected since last 10 years. Now there is full army and police control there but still peoples
face some serious obstacles in the way of living their lives which are known as "Street Crimes". Besides

1
BS Sociology, Department of Sociology, University of Swabi, KP, Pakistan.
2
BS Sociology, Department of Sociology, University of Swabi, KP, Pakistan.
3
BS Sociology, Department of Sociology, University of Swabi, KP, Pakistan.

▪ Corresponding Author: Maqsoodjan Khan (Maqsoodjankhan366@gmail.com)

▪ To Cite: Khan, M., Khan, U., & Khan, A. (2023). Street Crimes: A Case Study of District Swabi (KP). Qlantic Journal of
Social Sciences, 4(1), 19-26.
Maqsoodjan Khan, Usama Khan, Akif Khan

snatching of cellphones. motorcycles. pickpocketing, car lifting and child abduction the most terrible crime
is looting of a house by looters in the form of beggars.

In Swabi District, there are 10 police stations. We chose respondents from five sensitive police stations
in Swabi city, namely Kalu Khan, Parmolo, Chota Lahor, Yar Hussain, and Swabi.The main purpose of the
study is to highlight these problems in order to capture government attention towards the solution for
these problems.

Purpose of the Study

Due to high population in Swabi the street crime is increasing day by day. The Study was carried out for
the purpose to aware the Government and other local organizations about the different kinds of street
crimes which are committed in Swabi District and to find the socio economic causes behind the commission
of street crimes. Furthermore, we would be able to highlight these problems to the government. In short
after studying this the government can plan in better way to ensure street crimes.

Objectives of the Study

▪ To know about the different kinds of street crimes which are committed in Swabi District.
▪ To find the socio economic causes behind the commission of street crimes.
▪ To seek the opinion of local people of sampled area towards street criminals.
▪ To recommend the possible measures of street crimes control on the basis of study findings.

Significance of the Study

The study was carried out for the purpose to aware the people and local government about these problems
which disturb the day to day activities of people. It will provide the reliable data to government institutions
and other. Local communities about social, economic background of the social criminals. It will help the
government and local welfare communities to identify the street criminals. Furthermore, we would be able
to know about the faces that inspire these criminals through media to cease the crime and to live straight
forward life. In short, the government and other organizations after studying can benefited and can plan
in better way for peace of Swabi City.

Limitations of the Study

There are some limitations of this research work.
The study is limited to the residents from the jurisdiction of five sensitive police stations of Swabi City.
The study is conducted only on male residents. The study was limited to District Swabi due to time frame,
financial resources, and accessibility problem of the researchers.

Literature Review
Crime can be defined as an international act or omission that violates criminal law, committed without
defense or justification, and sanctioned by the state as a felony or misdemeanor (Tappan, 1960). Crime is
a multifaceted concept, as it involves breaking both the law and social norms within a society. This makes
crime a social construct, shaped by the community's collective definition of right and wrong. While some
crimes, like murder, are universally condemned, there are other actions that some people may view as
acceptable, such as speeding or illegal movie downloads. It's essential to differentiate between crime and
deviance; deviance pertains to unacceptable behavior within a specific cultural context or situation, such
as truancy (Alexander, 1956).

Types of Crime
Crimes are defined by criminal law, a set of federal and state regulations that prohibit behavior deemed
harmful to society. Common types of crimes include personal crimes (against individuals), property crimes
(against property rights), inchoate crimes (incomplete crimes requiring a substantial step toward
completion), and statutory crimes (violations of specific state or federal statutes) (Graham, 1995).
The discussion here touches upon Peter Hitchens' perspective on crime. He contends that the "liberal elite"

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 Street Crimes: A Case Study of District Swabi (KP)

has captured the government, media, and educational system, leading to a breakdown in authority,
increasing crime rates, and a loss of cherished freedoms. Hitchens advocates for stricter law enforcement
and even supports the death penalty as a deterrent to murder (Hitchens, 2003).

Street Crime
Street crime refers to criminal offenses committed in public places, often associated with acts like robbery,
theft, pickpocketing, drug dealing, prostitution, graffiti, vandalism, and assaults. Street crime can be
committed by individuals or loosely formed groups seeking immediate financial gain. It can impact
communities, businesses, and social dynamics (Qadri, 2009).

Types of Street Crimes in Pakistan

Street crimes in Pakistan encompass various activities, including:
Mobile Snatching: The act of snatching mobile phones from individuals at gunpoint.
Vehicle Theft: Stealing motor vehicles or bikes.
ATM Looting: Robbing cash from ATMs, often involving identity fraud.
Gang Rape: Involves multiple individuals participating in the rape of a single victim.
Arson: Deliberately setting fire to buildings, vehicles, or other property.
Attempt of Murder: Planning or attempting to commit murder.
Bhattakhori (Illegal Tax): Demanding money through phone calls or letters with the threat of harm (Galelo,
2001).

Street Crimes in Pakistan No.

wadays
Street crimes are on the rise in Pakistan, with incidents like mobile phone snatching and vehicle theft
increasing. While there have been improvements in other aspects of law and order, street crimes remain a
significant concern. The prevalence of street crime is a reflection of economic and social challenges faced
by the population (Siyar, 2016)

Street Crimes in Karachi

Street crimes, including mobile phone snatching and vehicle theft, have increased in Karachi, despite
progress in other areas of law and order. While targeted killings and bombings have decreased due to
political operations, citizens still face risks on the streets. The rise in street crimes in Karachi is a matter
of great concern (Hameed, 2018).

Street Crimes in Peshawar, KP

Peshawar has witnessed a surge in street crimes, with incidents of mobile phone snatching and robbery
becoming a common occurrence. The government's claim of depoliticizing the police stands in stark
contrast to the police's indifference toward these street crimes. Concrete measures are needed to address
this menace and protect the people of Peshawar (Nadir, 2016).

Causes of Street Crimes

Street crimes have multiple underlying causes:

Poverty
Economic deprivation and the widening gap between the rich and poor can drive individuals to commit
crimes as a means of survival.

Family Conditions
Poor family conditions, neglect, and a lack of attention can push individuals, especially youths, into
criminal activities.

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Maqsoodjan Khan, Usama Khan, Akif Khan

Peer Pressure
Youths may engage in crime due to peer pressure, wanting to fit in with their peers who are involved in
criminal activities.

The Society
Society's glorification of wealth, opulence, and success, without concern for the means by which it is
achieved, can drive individuals to crime.

Drugs
Drug addiction can lead individuals to commit crimes to sustain their habits.

Unemployment
High levels of unemployment force individuals to turn to crime to support themselves.

Politics
Politicians may arm youths with weapons during political campaigns, leading them to commit crimes in
the post-election period.

Unfair Judicial System

An unfair judicial system can lead innocent people to resort to crime as a form of rebellion against society
(Morgan, 2002).

Powerful Deterrent Against Street Crime

Surveillance Cameras
Installing security cameras at street corners helps the police catch criminals. It acts as a deterrent, reducing
street crime. Studies have shown that crime rates can drop significantly when surveillance cameras are in
place. Even if a crime occurs, the camera footage helps the police investigate and identify the culprits.
Criminals like drug dealers tend to avoid areas with cameras.

Police Patrolling
Regular police patrols on the streets create a sense of fear among potential criminals. When they know that
law enforcement is actively monitoring the area, they are less likely to commit crimes. Areas with frequent
police patrols often have lower crime rates.

Education
Educating our society is essential to combat street crime. A well-educated and literate population
contributes to a stronger and more peaceful nation. Parents play a crucial role by teaching their children
about the negative consequences of criminal activities. Responsible spending habits can also discourage
people from resorting to crime. Saving money for the future is more beneficial than spending on
unnecessary luxuries.

Religious Guidance
Returning to the core principles of one's religion can help eliminate social evils. Embracing values like
equality, moderation, justice, and peace can lead to positive changes. It's important to remind people of
their religious duties and accountability for their actions. With honesty and sincerity, we can work together
to overcome these challenges.
The goal is to approach these issues with optimism and take steps toward a safer and more harmonious
society (Sheikh, 2001).

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 Street Crimes: A Case Study of District Swabi (KP)

Research Design
The research design for this study entails a clear definition of the study's universe, which is delimited to
the geographical scope of five police stations in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region of Pakistan: Swabi, Kalu
Khan, Yar Hussain, Parmolo, and Chota Lahor Swabi. It specifically targets male residents within these
areas and focuses on investigating street crimes, including their causes, effects, and nature. To gather data,
a non-probability sampling technique known as convenience sampling was adopted, where respondents
were selected based on the researchers' accessibility. Data was primarily collected through interviews using
an interview schedule, as some respondents struggled to comprehend certain questions related to street
crimes. A pretesting phase was conducted to ensure the questionnaire's validity. Subsequently, data
collected went through a series of analytical stages, including editing, classification, data entry into SPSS,
tabulations, diagram generation, and the formulation of findings and suggestions. The study was
conducted over a three-month period, during which data collection, analysis, and reporting took place. In
summary, this research design provides a comprehensive framework for investigating street crimes in the
specified regions, outlining the study's boundaries, objectives, sample size, data collection method, and
analysis process, with a focus on convenience sampling and interview-based data collection.

Findings
from the data analysis are as follows:
1. Age: The majority of respondents (28%) were in the age group of 25 years.
2. Education Status: Most respondents (60%) were literate.
3. Level of Education (Among Literate Respondents): Among literate respondents, the majority (36%)
had completed their graduation.
4. Profession: The majority of respondents (34%) were government servants.
5. Awareness of Street Crime: The majority of respondents (90%) were aware of street crimes.
6. Victims of Street Crime: Most respondents (68%) reported that they were not victims of street
crimes.
7. Types of Street Crime Experienced: Among those who were victims of street crime, bike lifting was
the most common (12%).
8. Causes of Street Crime: The primary cause of street crime, as reported by respondents, was poverty
(42%).
9. Groups Most Likely to Commit Street Crime: Respondents believed that drug addicts (34%) were the
most likely group to commit street crimes.
10. Impact of Lack of Proper Socialization: A significant majority (72%) believed that the lack of proper
socialization of children resulted in street crime.
11. Effects of Street Crime on the Community: Street crime was perceived to cause insecurity to people
(56%) and threaten social respect (22%).
12. Lodging F.I.R against Street Crime: A majority of respondents (68%) reported that people in their
area did lodge F.I.R against street crimes.
13. Measures to Decrease Street Crime: The most suggested measure to decrease street crime was
through education (44%).
14. Satisfaction with Police: More than half of the respondents (54%) were satisfied with the role of the
police.
15. Police Actions for Decreasing Street Crime: Respondents believed that police protect them (16%) and
perform their duty well (6%) as measures to decrease street crime.
16. Police Patrol in the Area: The majority (78%) of respondents reported the presence of police patrols
in their area.
17. Frequency of Police Patrol: Most respondents (38%) reported that police patrols occurred once a day
in their area.
18. More Stop and Searches: A significant number of respondents (42%) agreed that there should be
more stop and searches to prevent street crime.
19. Government and Local Efforts: The majority of respondents (66%) believed that the government had
taken steps to prevent street crimes in their area.

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Maqsoodjan Khan, Usama Khan, Akif Khan

Conclusions
Street crime has the jeopardized impacts on the social order and social structure of the society. It is lying
on the roots of the nations development, and economy of the country is badly affected. If the youth is
provided basic needs of life, like education, health, skills etc. then there is no doubt about the brilliant
future of the country. It has been observed that due to financial problems, as they cannot provide good life
to their children they commit crime so that they can provide food, shelter and other necessity. The Study
also proved that majority peoples satisfied from the role of police, because police are available 24/7 for
them and they protect our lives liberty and rights. According to respondents if education rate is higher then
there is no chance to anyone to commit a crime because in order to bring an end this evil we must educate
our society because only educate and literate can make up a strong and peaceful nation. We must also build
a strong family fabric. The parents should give time to their children and make them aware of the negative
effects of these crimes. Mostly drug users commit street crimes because drugs are too expensive so it is
difficult for the person to arrange money for drugs. Mobile Snatching and Moter/Bike lifting usually occurs
in Swabi. Street crimes causes insecurity and people feel insecure. Many peoples blamed unemployment
because the skyrocketing unemployment in the country is another reason the youths take to crime to
support themselves. A situation where one goes through school and end up jobless for many years is a clear
invitation into a world of crime. In some cases, victims are not agreeing to lodge an FIR because they think
that police can do nothing for them. During this research it was proved that poverty and lack of education
are equally responsible for the existence of street crimes.

Suggestions
The following enumerated suggestions may be a part in the reduction solution of the curses of street crimes
for the wellbeing of the society.
▪ State plays a pivotal role in the behavior of its citizens. If poverty, unemployment, loot, plunder is
controlled.
▪ Executive body should play their role effectively to control street crimes
▪ Until and unless we purify our souls and guide our young generation to convince them of the
hereafter. The criminals are well aware about the crimes and they know about thereafter effects.
▪ Children should be brought up in a true Islamic environment. The parents should be mentally,
socially and religiously well trained so as to groom their kids properly.
▪ Government should provide basic needs/necessities of life i.e food, cloths, shelter to avoid indulgence
of masses in crimes.
▪ Proper check and balance from the family side, to keep their children away from the company of bad
peoples.
▪ proper check and balance should be imposed by the government on the concerned authorities i.e. law
enforcement agencies.
▪ Seminars should be arranged against street crimes.
▪ The government should implement the criminal laws, which will help to tackle the street criminals.

References
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Ashley, D. (2004). The Safe streets Violent Crime” https:www.streetcrimes.com/review
Beinaert, S., Anderson, B., lee, S., & Utting, D. (2001), Youth at Risk? A national survey of risk factors, protective
factors and problem behavior among young people in England, Scotland and Wales. Communities that
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Campbell, S., Harrington, V., & Miller, J. (2000). "Youth Crime: Findings from the 1998/1999 Youth lifestyles
Survey". Home Office research Study, No.209.Home office.
Galelo, G. (2001). Review of Street Crimes. Oxford University press, Oxford
Graham, J., & bowling, B. (1995). "Young People and Crime". Home Office Research Study, No.145.HMSO.
Hale, C. (1999). "The labor Market and post-War-Crime Trends in England and Wales in Carlen P and Morgan R
(eds) Crime Unlimited? Questions for the 21st century". Macmillan.
Hameed, I. (January 3, 2018), The Express Tribune(newspaper)

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 Street Crimes: A Case Study of District Swabi (KP)

Harrington, V., & Mayhew, P. (2001). "Mobile Phone Theft". Home office Research study. No.235.Home office.
Mori. (2000)."Youth Survey: research study conducted for the youth justice Board". Youth Justice Board.
Nadir, K. (17, July,2016). Deployment of Police. Dawn(newspaper)
https://www.lawhandbook.sa.gov.au/ch12s01.php
Qadri, A. M. S. (2009). "Ahmed Siddiqui's Criminology, Problems and Perspectives(5th ed)", P,92-95,
403,407,436-439,495. Eastern Book Company, Lucknow
Tappan, p. (1960). Crime, Justice and Correction. P,23-27 New York.
Tegan, B. F. (1986). "Introduction to Criminology". Theories, Methods (Criminal,P,58-88, 74-83,82-88,
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Vold, G., Bernard, T., & Snipes, J. (1998). "Theoretical Criminology" Oxford University Press, Oxford.

Annexure
Interview Schedule
A Survey of Street Crimes in Swabi
1) Respondent No 10) What do you think who are more vulnerable
2) Age to the street crimes?
3) Education status of the respondent? (a) Females
(a) Literate (b) children’s
(b) illiterate (c) Employed
(d) aged people
4) If literate level of education (e) upper class
(a) Primary (f) all of them
(b) Middle
(c) high 11) Does there any police patrol in your street or
(d) intermediate area?
(e) Graduation (a) Yes
(f) Master degree (b) No
(g) Any other
12) How many times does the police patrol in
5) Profession your Area?
(a) Government servant (a) Once a day
(b) Businessman (b) twice a day
(c) Student (c) once in a week
(d) Any other (d) once in a month

6) Do you known street crime? 13) Are you satisfied from the role of police?
(a) Yes (A) Yes
(b) No (b) No

7) Have you ever been a victim of street crime? 14) What do you think is the most likely group
(a) Yes to commit street crime?
(b) No (a) Drug addicts
(c) (b) unemployed
(c) Teenagers
8) If yes, then specify (D) immigrants
(e) others please specify........
9) What could be the causes of street crime?
(f) all the above are equally able to commit
(a) Poverty
street crime
(b) Unemployment
(c) Illiteracy 15) Do you think no proper socialization of
(d) Poor socialization children results in street crimes?
(c) Bad company (a) yes
(d) Any other (b) no

Qlantic Journal of Social Sciences (QJSS) | Volume 4, No. 1(Winter 2023) 25

Maqsoodjan Khan, Usama Khan, Akif Khan

16) If yes, How? 19) Is there any steps taken by govt/local people
(a) lack of guidance in prevention of street in your area
(b) No proper check on children (a) yes
(c) Peers (b) No
(d) due to lack of proper education
(e) any other 20) How street crime effect the community?
(a) Causes insecurity to the people
17) Which kind of street crime usually occurs in (b) It is a threat to the social respect of the
your area? people
(a) mobile snatching (c) It vanishes the sense of confidence among
(b) Bike/ moter vehicle lifting the people.
(c) any other
21) Do people lodge Fir against street crime in
18) Do you think there should be more stop and your area?
searches in your area to prevent street (a) Yes
crimes? (b) No
(a) Yes
(b) No 22) If yes, what are its impacts in decreasing
(c) Not sure the street crimes .........

23) What would you suggest that how street

crimes can be controlled/decreased?

26 Qlantic Journal of Social Sciences (QJSS) | Volume 4, No. 1 (Winter 2023)